Broadcasting of Church Services Using Citizens' Band (CB) Radio

DTI Press Release - 12 February 1999


The Radiocommunications Agency confirmed today that it is illegal to use Citizen's Band Radio for broadcasting church services.

The announcement follows the discovery last year that a number of churches were using CB Radio to broadcast church services to parishioners unable to attend the service.

Whilst the Radiocommunications Agency recognise the value of broadcasting services to the elderly and housebound, Citizen's Band radio is not an appropriate band for broadcasting. It is designed for short term social or business conversation and lengthy services can jam the channels.

There is also concern that CB is not a protected service, leaving it open to interference from other users and making it unsuitable for religious purposes. The CB Licence conditions therefore have been amended to clarify further that such use is not permitted.

Other minor changes have also been made at this time and all changes will be effective from 1 March 1999. Use of CB radio other than in accordance with a licence is an offence under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 and offenders may face fines and/or imprisonment. The courts can also order apparatus or other things used in the offence forfeit.

The Agency does recognise that there is a demand for this service,  potentially across all religions and discussions are ongoing to identify spectrum more suited to this purpose.

Notes for Editors

1. To use CB radio in the UK, you must either hold a CB Radio Licence yourself or be supervised by a licence holder. Licences are issued on behalf of the Secretary of State by Subscription Services Ltd  (Tel: 0117 925 8333). CB is a short range radio service designed  to be used without the need for technical qualifications. Only
radios meeting the appropriate performance specification may be  used.

2. These changes are permitted by a variation to the Citizens' Band  Licence Terms, Provision and Limitations Booklet, published today  in the London, Edinburgh and Belfast Gazettes, effective from 1 March 1999.

3. Non media enquiries: 020 7211 0157

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